El Doradillo is a municipal protected area on Golfo Nuevo, 17 km (10 miles) north of downtown Puerto Madryn on a gravel road. Between June and December southern right whales come so close to the shore that you can hear them breathe from the beach. It is one of the few places in the world to watch whales this close from land.
Practical info
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | 17 km from downtown (25 min) |
| Access | Free |
| Best beaches | Las Canteras, El Doradillo, Punta Arco |
| Best time | High tide, any time of day |
| Facilities | None: bring water, warm clothes and take your trash with you |
These are the same whales you see on boat tours from Puerto Pirámides, but from land and on your own schedule. Many are mothers with calves using the coast as a sheltered nursery.
Local tip: ask us for the day’s tide table: at low tide whales stay hundreds of meters out; at high tide, 10 to 20 m from the water’s edge.
Frequently asked questions
Can I go to El Doradillo without a car?
There is no public transport. Take a taxi, rent a bike or book a transfer with us.
Is El Doradillo good for cruise passengers?
Yes, between June and December it is a short trip that fits even a 4-hour stop.
We take you to El Doradillo
We reply on WhatsApp the same day, in English. Tell us your dates, group size and, if you arrive by cruise, the ship name.